Sleeping Bag with Variable Magnetic Closure Positions

ABSTRACT

A sleeping bag with variable magnetic closure positions includes an inner shell and an outer shell enclosing a filler material, forming a sleeping space. An opening for accessing the sleeping space is adjacent a first edge and a second edge. The first edge and the second edge are overlapping and having aligning magnetic bodies. The sleeping bag also has magnetic bodies arranged to attach to the first edge and to the second edge. When the first edge and the second edge are coupled together, an enlarged sleeping space is created. When the first edge and the second edge are overlapping so that magnetic bodies on the first edge and the second edge are coupled to magnetic bodies on the sleeping bag, a reduced sleeping space is created.

BACKGROUND

Sleeping bags are known in the art and traditionally include a sheet of insulating material folded over to form a bag structure suitable for holding a person. Usually a zipper-type slide mechanism is sewn along two edges of the sheet, allowing the sheet to be fully opened up, or to partially open one side of the sleeping bag for ingress and egress. More modern body-shaped “mummy” type sleeping bags are sewn into a bag-like form, but also customarily use slide mechanisms near the opening to enlarge it for ingress and egress.

Traditional rectangular and modern mummy-type sleeping bags are usually made of a lightweight shell material, such as nylon, around a thick, but lightweight insulation material. These materials result in a reduced weight and allow a sleeping bag to compress into a holding bag or backpack for transport. But due to the thin and flexible nature of the material comprising the shell, it frequently folds over or otherwise encroaches on the path of the slide mechanism. Material taken up by the slide mechanism causes it to jam the mechanism, usually in such a way that prevents any further forward or reverse movement. Considerable time and effort is required to clear the slide mechanism, which remains prone to re-jamming when cleared of shell material.

There is therefore a need for a sleeping bag closure mechanism that resists interfering with the sleeping bag shell material. There is also a need for a sleeping bag closure mechanism that is at least as easy to open and close as a traditional slide mechanism. There is also a need for a sleeping bag closure that allows the sleeping bag to close in various positions, thereby rendering the sleeping bag tighter or looser around a user when in the sleeping bag, and which may be used in place of, or in addition to a traditional slide mechanism or other appropriate closures.

SUMMARY

A magnetically closed sleeping bag has multiple closure settings. The sleeping bag includes an inner shell and an outer shell, which encloses a filler material. The inner shell and the outer shell together create a sleeping space within the sleeping bag for a user. The sleeping bag also includes an opening for accessing the sleeping space, with the opening adjacent portions of the sleeping bag having a first edge and a second edge. The first edge and the second edge may also be characterized by flaps adjacent the opening.

The first edge and the second edge each having aligning first magnetic bodies, and the body of the sleeping bag, inward of the first magnetic bodies, incorporating second magnetic bodies that align with the first magnetic bodies of the first edge and the second edge in one or more positions. In one embodiment, the first magnetic bodies may be arranged in rows on the first edge and the second edge, and the second magnetic bodies may be in complimentary rows on the sleeping bag. When the first edge and the second edge are coupled together by the first magnetic bodies, an enlarged sleeping space is created. Conversely, when the first magnetic bodies are coupled to the second magnetic bodies, a reduced sleeping space is created.

The first magnetic bodies and the second magnetic bodies may be enclosed by the inner shell and the outer shell, and preferably, the filler material may separate the first magnetic bodies and the second magnetic bodies from the sleeping space for user comfort. To prevent intrusion and being felt within the sleeping space, the first magnetic bodies and the second magnetic bodies may be located between the outer shell and the filler material.

Because the first edge and the second edge overlap, a baffle is created when the first magnetic bodies are coupled to the second magnetic bodies. To help avoid strain and tearing of the inner shell or the outer shell, a gusset is coupled to the first edge and the second edge. The gusset is preferably located opposite the opening, and may be positioned at a point where the first edge and the second edge come together.

When multiple rows of second magnetic bodies are provided on the sleeping bag, the second magnetic bodies provide multiple complimentary positions, allowing the first magnetic bodies to couple to the second magnetic bodies and create multiple sizes of sleeping spaces. The second magnetic bodies may be arranged in a variety of positions, including rows or other configurations, to allow a user to close the sleeping bag in different arrangements, such as across rows.

The sleeping bag may include a sleeping pad adjacent the sleeping space for supporting a user. Also, the sleeping bag may be configured as a mummy-type sleeping bag. In a mummy-type sleeping bag, a closure flap may be incorporated adjacent the opening. In such instances, magnetic bodies incorporated into the closure flap and on the sleeping bag maintain the opening in a tightly closed configuration. The sleeping bag may also be configured traditionally, i.e., rectangular in plan view, in which case a closure flap is usually omitted.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a first embodiment sleeping bag having a variable magnetic closure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the sleeping bag holding a user;

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the sleeping bag holding user atop a sleeping pad;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the sleeping bag having a closure flap;

FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of a the sleeping bag having a magnetic closure with multiple settings;

FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a second embodiment rectangular sleeping bag holding a user;

FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of the second embodiment rectangular sleeping bag having a variable magnetic closure in a first closed position;

FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of the second embodiment sleeping bag in a second closed position with a larger sleeping area;

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of a magnetic fastener;

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the magnetic fastener; and

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of the magnetic fastener incorporating a releasable housing.

DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1, a mummy-type sleeping bag 10 is shown. The sleeping bag includes a series of high powered magnetic fasteners (“magnets”) 12. The magnets 12 are disposed within a baffle 14, which is an overlapping area of the sleeping bag 10. The baffle 14 opens, allowing a user 24 (FIG. 2) to enter and exit the sleeping bag 10. The baffle 14 is defined by a first edge 16 and a second edge 18 that overlap.

In preferred embodiments, the first edge 16 and the second edge 18 may be interchangeable (i.e., either one may overlap the other). Magnets 12 are located near the first edge 16 and second edge 18, and are evenly spaced to provide an even and effective closure. Complimentary magnets 12 are installed in the sleeping bag 10 to align with those near the edges 16, 18, thereby holding the baffle 14 closed when aligned. The magnets 12 located near the first edge 16 and the second edge 18 may be referred to as ‘first magnetic bodies’. The complimentary magnets 12 installed in the sleeping bag 10 may be referred to as ‘second magnetic bodies’. The baffle 14 is open near the opening 20 of the sleeping bag 10, but forms a closed gusset 22 distal to the opening 20.

Referring to FIG. 2, magnets 12 adjacent the first edge 16 and the second edge 18 are shown in side view, connected to complimentary magnets 12 in the sleeping bag 10. In this configuration, the sleeping bag 10 is held tightly against the user 24 by two rows of connected magnets 12, which is advantageous in cold weather. Also in this configuration, the magnets 12 are located adjacent the outer shell 26 of the sleeping bag to avoid the user 24 sensing them. The inner shell 28 and filler material 30 are disposed between the user 24 and the magnets 12. Because the outer shell 26 is relatively thin, high powered magnets 12 (for example, rare-earth magnets such as neodymium in one embodiment), are able to hold the baffle 14 closed even if the user 24 puts pressure against the sleeping bag 10 through customary movement.

Referring to FIG. 3, the sleeping bag 10 may incorporate a sleeping pad 32, allowing the user 30 to be elevated above the ground when in the sleeping bag 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the bag material forms a baffle 14 in the manner shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, but does not extend all the way around the user 30. In various embodiments, the sleeping pad 32 may be integrated into the sleeping bag 10, or the sleeping bag 10 may include a slot (not shown) for inserting the sleeping pad 32.

Referring to FIG. 4, in addition to the magnets 12 forming the baffle 14, the sleeping bag 10 may include a closure flap 34 near the opening 20. A magnet 12 placed in the closure flap 34 and corresponding to a complimentary magnet 12 adjacent the opening, allows a user 24 (FIG. 2) to tightly close the opening 20 in cold weather.

Referring to FIG. 5, the sleeping bag 10 is shown with the first edge 16 and the second edge 18 connected with magnets 12, permitting the sleeping bag 10 to be widened for a very loose fit. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeping bag 10 is shown in its loosest configuration, where magnets 12 at the first edge 16 are connected to magnets 12 at the second edge 18, effectively eliminating the baffle 14 (not shown). The baffle 14 would be present if the magnets 12 at the edges 16, 18 were connected to magnets 12 away from the edges 16, 18, on the outer shell 26 of the sleeping bag 10. In this embodiment, the gusset 22 is still present where the first edge 16 and second edge 18 meet, opposite the opening 20.

Referring to FIG. 6, an alternative embodiment rectangular sleeping bag 100 is shown in its most open configuration with a user 124 resting loosely therein. Due to the overlapping magnets 112 in this and the primary embodiment, when the sleeping bag 100 is in its most open configuration, some magnets 112 will be on the inner shell 128 of the sleeping bag 100 adjacent the user 124. The outer shell 126 and filler material 130 of the second embodiment sleeping bag 100 are substantially the same as the primary embodiment sleeping bag.

Referring to FIG. 7, the alternative embodiment sleeping bag 100 is shown overlapping. In this configuration, the alternative embodiment sleeping bag 100 forms a more conventional, rectangular shape when the magnets 112 are aligned to create the baffle 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnets 112 at the first edge 116 and the second edge 118 have considerable overlap to accommodate a very broad opening 120, typical of conventional rectangular sleeping bags 100. The gusset 122 is disposed at a greater distance to make entering and exiting the sleeping bag 100 as easy as possible.

Referring to FIG. 8, the alternative embodiment sleeping bag 100 is shown in its loosest configuration. The sleeping bag 100 incorporates magnets 112 along three or more rows permitting the sleeping bag 100 to be loosened or tightened in multiple positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeping bag 100 is shown in its loosest configuration, where magnets 112 at the first edge 116 are connected to magnets 112 at the second edge 118, effectively eliminating the baffle 114 (not shown). The baffle 114 would be present if the magnets 112 at the edges 116, 118 were connected to magnets 112 away from the edges 116, 118, on the outer shell 126 of the sleeping bag 100. In this embodiment, the gusset 122 is still present where the first edge 116 and second edge 118 meet, opposite the opening 120.

Referring to FIGS. 9-11, while the magnets 12 of the sleeping bag may comprise a variety of structures with magnetic properties, one contemplated embodiment is a magnetic fastener 300 having a magnetic body 310 surrounded by a resilient housing 312. The housing protects the magnetic body 310 against damage and provides a rounded surface to avoid a user 24 (not shown) feeling sharp surfaces on the magnetic body 310 in the sleeping bag 10. To allow access to the magnetic body 310 for removal or replacement, a fastener 314, such as hook and latch material may be incorporated into the housing 312. To facilitate opening the housing 312, a pull tab 316 may be incorporated into the housing 312. The pull tabs 316 may also be used to pull apart the magnetic fasteners 300 in some embodiments.

The structure of the magnetic sleeping bag 10 having been described, its method of use will now be discussed.

To use the magnetic sleeping bag 10, a user 24 unrolls or unpacks the sleeping bag in the conventional manner. Starting from the opening 20, the user 24 pulls apart the first edge 16 and the second edge 18, separating the magnets 12 along them, and opening the baffle 14 to allowing ingress into the sleeping bag 10. Once inside the sleeping bag 10, the user 24 places the first edge 16 in a preferred position on the user's 24 body, and aligns the second edge 18 in a desired position.

If the first edge 16 and second edge 18 are aligned, the sleeping bag 10 will be loosely closed. If the edges 16, 18 are in an overlapping configuration, create the baffle 14, the sleeping bag will have a tighter fit for a colder environment. If a closure flap 34 is present, the user has the option of attaching it to a magnet 12 at the opening 20 to render the opening 20 smaller for more heat retention. The user then remains in the sleeping bag 10 as long as desired.

To exit the sleeping bag 10, the user simply urges the first edge 16 away from the second edge 18, thereby separating the magnets 12 and opening the sleeping bag 10. Once the user is out of the sleeping bag 10, the magnets 12 may be replaced, in the tightest sleeping bag 10 closure position if desired, and the sleeping bag 10 rolled and stored conventionally.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the Invention is sufficient in detail to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention. It is understood, however, that the detail of the preferred embodiment presented is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, in as much as equivalents thereof and other modifications which come within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this specification. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A magnetic closure sleeping bag having multiple closure settings, the sleeping bag comprising: an inner shell and an outer shell enclosing a filler material, the inner shell and the outer together defining a sleeping space within the sleeping bag; the sleeping bag defining an opening for accessing the sleeping space, the opening adjacent a first edge and a second edge of the sleeping bag; the first edge and the second edge having aligning first magnetic bodies; the sleeping bag having second magnetic bodies that align with the first magnetic bodies; wherein an enlarged sleeping space is created when first edge and the second edge are coupled together by the first magnetic bodies; and wherein a reduced sleeping space is created when the first magnetic bodies are coupled to the second magnetic bodies.
 2. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the first magnetic bodies and the second magnetic bodies are enclosed by the inner shell and the outer shell.
 3. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the filler material separates the first magnetic bodies and the second magnetic bodies from the sleeping space.
 4. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the first magnetic bodies and the second magnetic bodies are located between the outer shell and the filler material.
 5. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein a baffle is created when the first magnetic bodies are coupled to the second magnetic bodies.
 6. The sleeping bag of claim 1 further comprising a gusset coupled to the first edge and the second edge.
 7. The sleeping bag of claim 1 further comprising a gusset opposite the opening.
 8. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the second magnetic bodies provide multiple complimentary positions, allowing the first magnetic bodies coupling to the second magnetic bodies to create multiple sizes of sleeping spaces.
 9. The sleeping bag of claim 1, further comprising a sleeping pad adjacent the sleeping space.
 10. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the second magnetic bodies are arranged in rows.
 11. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the sleeping bag is a mummy-type sleeping bag.
 12. The sleeping bag of claim 1 further comprising a closure flap adjacent the opening.
 13. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the sleeping bag is rectangular in plan view.
 14. A sleeping bag magnetically closeable in multiple positions, the sleeping bag comprising: an inner shell and an outer shell enclosing a filler material, the inner shell and the outer together defining a sleeping space within the sleeping bag; an opening adjacent the sleeping space, the opening having a first edge and a second edge configured to overlap, thereby adjusting the size of the opening. the first edge and the second edge joined by a gusset; the opening having first magnetic bodies disposed along the first edge and the second edge; the sleeping bag having second magnetic bodies disposed in the sleeping bag, the second magnetic bodies arranged complimentary to the first magnetic bodies; wherein the first edge and the second edge may be magnetically coupled together to create an enlarged sleeping space; and wherein a the first edge and the second edge may be magnetically coupled to the outer shell, in an overlapping configuration, to create a reduced sleeping space.
 15. The sleeping bag of claim 14 wherein the first magnetic bodies and the second magnetic bodies are enclosed by the inner shell and the outer shell.
 16. The sleeping bag of claim 14 further comprising a baffle formed when the first edge and the second edge are overlapping.
 17. The sleeping bag of claim 14 wherein the second magnetic bodies are arranged in rows.
 18. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the sleeping bag is a mummy-type sleeping bag.
 19. The sleeping bag of claim 1 further comprising a closure flap adjacent the opening.
 20. The sleeping bag of claim 1 wherein the sleeping bag is rectangular in plan view. 